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Introduction

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a simple yet irresistible meal that combines juicy, tender chicken with crispy, golden potatoes, all smothered in a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing recipe. The bold flavors of garlic and Parmesan meld beautifully with the savory chicken and perfectly roasted potatoes, making this dish both comforting and satisfying. Follow these detailed instructions to create a restaurant-quality meal at home!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

For the Potatoes:

  • 1½ pounds baby potatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme

For the Parmesan Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Instructions

1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will ensure that the chicken cooks through evenly and the potatoes develop a golden, crispy exterior.
  2. Lightly grease a large baking dish or sheet pan with olive oil or a non-stick cooking spray. Set the dish aside for later.

2: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Pat Dry: Using paper towels, thoroughly pat the chicken breasts dry. Removing excess moisture helps the seasonings stick better and ensures even browning during roasting.
  2. Mix Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.
  3. Oil the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil to coat them lightly but completely. This helps the seasonings adhere and promotes browning.
  4. Season Generously: Rub the garlic and spice mixture onto both sides of the chicken breasts. Make sure to press the mixture into the meat for maximum flavor.
  5. Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced to allow for proper roasting.

3: Prepare the Potatoes

  1. Halve the Potatoes: If using baby potatoes, cut them in half lengthwise to create evenly sized pieces. If substituting larger potatoes, dice them into 1-inch chunks.
  2. Toss with Oil and Seasonings: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, rosemary, and thyme. Toss well to ensure each piece is evenly coated.
  3. Arrange Around the Chicken: Spread the seasoned potatoes around the chicken in the baking dish, ensuring they are in a single layer. For extra crispiness, position the potatoes cut-side down.

4: Roast the Chicken and Potatoes

  1. Bake in the Oven: Place the baking dish on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Roast for 30-35 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken breasts. Larger pieces may require an additional 5 minutes.
  2. Check Doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part. Pierce the potatoes with a fork to ensure they are tender.
  3. Broil for Crispiness (Optional): For an extra golden finish, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
  4. Remove the baking dish from the oven and cover loosely with aluminum foil to keep warm while you prepare the Parmesan sauce.

5: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

  1. Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Be careful not to let the butter brown, as this can alter the flavor.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.
  3. Add Heavy Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking to ensure a smooth consistency. Continue whisking until the mixture is well combined.
  4. Incorporate Parmesan: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, a little at a time, while stirring continuously. Allow the cheese to melt completely before adding more. This ensures a creamy, lump-free sauce.
  5. Season to Taste: Add salt and black pepper to the sauce, adjusting to your preference. Stir well and let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly but remain pourable.
  6. Remove the sauce from heat and set aside.

6: Assemble and Serve

  1. Pour Sauce: Carefully pour the warm Parmesan sauce over the roasted chicken and potatoes, ensuring even coverage. The sauce will coat the dish with a luscious, creamy layer.
  2. Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and a touch of freshness.
  3. Plate and Serve: Serve the chicken and potatoes immediately, making sure to spoon some of the extra sauce onto each plate. Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Tips

  1. Marinate the Chicken: For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 1-2 hours before cooking.
  2. Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure the potatoes and chicken are spaced out in the baking dish to promote even roasting and prevent steaming.
  3. Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked without being overdone. Overcooked chicken can become dry.
  4. Add Texture: Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the potatoes for added crunch.
  5. Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: Fresh herbs can be used in place of dried for a more aromatic dish. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:

  • Let the dish cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

  • Store cooled portions in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Label and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating:

  • Oven Method: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
  • Microwave: Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe dish in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally.
  • Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.

Variations

  1. Herbed Lemon Chicken: Replace the cream sauce with a light lemon-butter sauce for a zesty twist.
  2. Mediterranean Style: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
  3. Low-Carb Alternative: Use cauliflower florets or zucchini in place of potatoes for a keto-friendly dish.
  4. Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with thick slices of portobello mushrooms or tofu for a meat-free option.
  5. Cheesy Overload: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese over the dish and broil until bubbly.

Nutrition Details (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 480
  • Protein: 40g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 620mg

FAQ

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a flavorful alternative. They will remain juicy even if slightly overcooked. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may cook faster.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the chicken seasoning mix for a spicy kick. You can also stir hot sauce into the Parmesan sauce.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can season the chicken and potatoes and prepare the Parmesan sauce up to 24 hours ahead. Store the sauce separately and reheat it just before serving.

What can I do with leftovers?

Leftovers make an excellent filling for wraps, sandwiches, or even as a topping for pasta. The flavors deepen over time, making them even more delicious the next day.